Rouhani Hopes for Enhanced Ties with Afghanistan

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani in a meeting with Afghanistan’s Chief Executive reaffirmed Tehran’s support for the Afghan nation and government, and urged the deepening and strengthening of mutual cooperation between the two neighboring countries.

During the Thursday meeting with Abdullah Abdullah held on the sidelines of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Summit in the Turkish city of Istanbul, Rouhani hailed the cultural commonalities between the two nations, and noted that having close ties with Kabul is significant for Tehran.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran has always sought the enhancement of stability and peace in Afghanistan, and will always stay beside the Afghan people,” the Iranian president added, underlining the necessity for the expansion of Tehran-Kabul cooperation to achieve the mutual interests of both nations.

He also referred to the promotion of cooperation between Iranian and Afghan private sectors as well as the expansion of cooperation among the two countries’ entrepreneurs and investors, and described it as an important step in the reinforcement of bilateral ties.

Rouhani also expressed the hope that the level of relations between Iran and Afghanistan would be improved through joint efforts.

The Afghan official, for his part, appreciated the Iranian nation and government’s support for Afghan people, particularly in the time of hardships and difficulties.

“Afghanistan is resolved to develop its ties and cooperation with the Islamic Republic of Iran more than ever, and implement the agreements previously reached between the two countries,” he noted.

Abdullah further expressed the hope that the development of cooperation between the two countries would be accelerated once the Iran-Afghanistan Joint Committee starts its operation.